• Destroy interesting-looking seedlings that pop up where flowers such as poppies, cleome, alyssum, calendula grew last year. They may have self-seeded; don't disturb them until you're sure what they are.

• Bury seeds. Package instructions specify the correct depth for each variety, but the best general rule is the old one: seeds should be covered twice the depth of their own diameter.

• Postpone weeding. Young weeds have shallow roots and just stirring the soil will discourage them. Whatever you do, don't let them set seed.